Exploring the top figure skater’s psychological strengths reflected on the pathway to the Olympics

Abstract

[Purpose] This study was designed to explore Yuna Kim’s psychological strengths and the contextual factors, which led her to obtain the gold medal and the reflection of peak performance and preparation at the 2010 Olympics. It was hoped that by sharing the experience of one of the top athletes, other athletes would learn from her and prepare themselves better for Olympics in the future. [Methods] A case study method was applied with a qualitative approach. To obtain the purpose of the study, five in-depth interview sessions including introductory and member checking procedures were conducted. The interviews were recoded and transcribed verbatim, and content analysis was used to inductively analyse the data. [Results] The four general dimensions that were discovered in the results included Social-external Factors, Personal Traits, Coping Strategies, and Peak Performance. The social-external factors consisted of social support and attached/detached relationships while personal traits were personality traits, confidence and motivation. Coping strategies to overcome external and situational pressures were detached coping and resilience whereas peak performance was reflected on flow and the state of being mindful. [Conclusion] In conclusion, Yuna Kim’s strength was parallel with the previous research on the top athletes and other findings such as adaptive perfectionism and a sense of rivalry in the research were discussed.

The Effect of Modeling on Self-Efficacy and Flow State of Adolescent Athletes Through Role Models

“…Meanwhile, in the field of sports psychology, peak performance is considered an important topic for athletes, coaches, and sports psychologists. Therefore, various studies have been conducted on approaches and mediation for producing peak performance in athletes (Kwon et al, 2018). These studies have verified many psychological variables that predict peak performance.…”